Varicose Veins Surgery: Pros and Cons

Overview of Varicose Veins Surgery

If all the non-surgical options go in vain, the patient will be usually recommended surgical procedures. Varicose veins stripping is one of the most highly preferred surgeries worldwide.

Varicose veins stripping helps in treating varicose veins and prevents them from reoccurring. The doctor will first examine the patient and locate the patients’ nonworking valves. An ultrasound device may be used to take a closer look of the veins, or a duplex scan can be advised to get clear images of veins and the amount of blood flow. A duplex scan helps in ruling out any concern pertaining to clots and thrombosis, in the veins.

During the surgery, the doctor will make two incisions – one incision in the groin and one very close to the knee. Then, a small wire will be inserted into the affected varicose veins. A special wire will be attached to one end of the vein and then slowly pull the wire out, allowing the vein to flow. Although the surgery may cause pain, bleeding and bruising, severe complications are unusual.

Pros

1. Effective treatment for treating large and lumpy veins as the surface area is too large for the thin light of a laser to reach all parts of the vein in laser treatments.

2. Works really well for patients having phobia of needles.

3. Varicose vein surgery has proven to be clinically effective. As per a UK study, 88% of patients showed satisfaction with the results of the surgery.

4. The surgery does not require an overnight stay in the hospital. You can expect to be out of the hospital in an hour or so after the surgery is over.

5. Most of the insurance companies will cover the symptoms of swelling and pain caused due to varicose veins.

6. In most cases, a patient can return to work within 1 to 2 weeks of surgery.

Cons

1. The bruising and pain after the surgery can last for 5 to 6 weeks.

2. During the surgery, your small veins that lie next to the varicose veins may be affected.

3. Recovery from anaesthetic effects can take a few days.

4. Side-effects of anaesthesia such as breathing problems is possible.

5. Possibility of recurrent varicose veins after the surgery. A few studies suggest that varicose veins may reoccur at an interval of 3 years soon after the procedure.

6. Although it is rare, but the surgery may cause chest infections especially in smokers.

In a nutshell

You can easily qualify for varicose vein surgery if you are medically fit otherwise and have a relative to take care of you. Most of all varicose vein surgeries are performed under general anaesthetic wherein the anaesthetic is injected through the needle and you will fall asleep within no time.

Lastly, remember, removal of varicose veins is not a permanent cure for varicose veins. You may notice other veins to be affected over time. Therefore, it is imperative to take additional care of your veins once the surgery is done.

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*Please consult a qualified physician for correct information and suggestion.